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The in-demand Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi has been hit with a brutal injury blow, having been ruled out for four months after undergoing foot surgery.

The Frenchman sustained the injury while in action for Bournemouth during pre-season. And the issue was so severe that Kroupi was forced to undergo surgery, with the Cherries confirming that the procedure went to plan.

However, it appears the south coast outfit could be without one of their breakout stars from last season until around Christmas. According to reports, the 20-year-old is now facing a period of around three to four months on the sidelines - which is also unwelcome news for the striker's many suitors, including Arsenal, Tottenham and Barcelona.

A statement from Bournemouth on Wednesday read: “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Junior Kroupi has undergone successful surgery after sustaining a foot injury during a pre-season training session in Austria.

“The 20-year-old returned to the UK earlier this week to undergo the procedure and will consequently face a spell on the sidelines.

“Junior will now be supported by the club's medical and performance staff as he begins a period of rehabilitation. Everyone at AFC Bournemouth extends their best wishes to Junior and looks forward to seeing him back on the pitch.”

Kroupi joined Bournemouth from French side Lorient in 2025 but returned to Ligue 1 on loan. He then enjoyed a very impressive debut campaign on the South Coast, having hit 13 Premier League goals.

That form was good enough to see the likes of Arsenal and Spurs express an interest in his services, while Spanish giants Barcelona were also credited as admirers. But a move now appears highly unlikely.

Kroupi is not the only Bournemouth star to court interest this summer. Playmaker Alex Scott also has plenty of admirers, with Chelsea among those interested.

Bournemouth will understandably be very keen to keep hold of both as they attempt to get off on the best foot under new boss Marco Rose. The German replaced Andoni Iraola after his move to Liverpool.

Bournemouth also have European football to contend with for the first time this season. The Cherries finished sixth in the table last season and secured a spot in the Europa League.

Arsenal in the meantime have been forced to look elsewhere as they attempt to add to their attacking options. The Gunners have been linked with a move for Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr, albeit a deal would likely have to be the most expensive in British football history.

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